Chris Kirkwood of the Meat Puppets Interview December 6. 2016 at Premier Studios in Phoenix, Az.

Summary

In this transcript, Chris Kirkwood, bass player of the Meat Puppets, shares his musical journey, starting from his early life in Arizona to his current involvement in the local music scene. He discusses the formation of the band, their influences, and the evolution of their music over the years. Kirkwood also reflects on the impact of their collaboration with Nirvana and their place in the Arizona music legacy, highlighting the significance of home and the enduring love for music that drives him.

Takeaways

• 🎶 Chris Kirkwood, a bass player from the Meat Puppets, shares his musical journey starting in Arizona.
• 🏠 Born in Texas, Chris moved to Arizona at a young age and grew up in Phoenix, influenced by his family's involvement in horse racing.
• 🎵 Chris's early musical interests included the banjo, inspired by the film 'Deliverance', and he took lessons at McLarty's Music.
• 🎹 Despite having lessons in guitar and piano, Chris found his true passion in the banjo and later the bass guitar.
• 🌟 The Meat Puppets' formation was a natural progression from Chris and his brother Kurt's shared musical interests and their meeting with Derek Bostrom.
• 🎤 The band's name, Meat Puppets, originated from a song written by Chris's brother, Kurt, and its open-ended nature resonated with them.
• 📈 The Meat Puppets' musical style evolved over time, influenced by various genres including punk rock, bluegrass, and indigenous musics.
• 🔥 The band gained national attention after being invited to perform with Nirvana on MTV Unplugged, which significantly boosted their popularity.
• 🎷 Chris reflects on the Meat Puppets' longevity and how their music has matured while still chasing the same passion for expression.
• 🏙️ Despite touring and traveling, Chris feels a strong connection to Arizona, considering it home and an integral part of the band's identity.
• 🎖️ The Meat Puppets' induction into the Arizona Hall of Fame is a testament to their contributions to the local music scene and their ongoing influence.

Q & A

What is Chris Kirkwood's role in the Meat Puppets?

Chris Kirkwood is the bass player of the Meat Puppets.

Where was Chris Kirkwood born and when did he move to Arizona?

Chris Kirkwood was born in Texas and moved to Arizona around 1965 when he was pretty young.

What was Chris Kirkwood's family's connection to the Thoroughbred circuit in the Southwest?

Chris Kirkwood's mother's second husband was a furrier by trade and a horseshoeer, and they were on the Thoroughbred circuit in the Southwest, which led them to settle in Arizona near Turf Paradise.

Which school did Chris Kirkwood and his brother Kurt attend from first through eighth grade?

Chris Kirkwood and his brother Kurt attended Royal Palm school from first through eighth grade.

What high school did Chris Kirkwood start attending in 1974?

Chris Kirkwood started attending Brophy College Prep in 1974.

What musical instrument caught Chris Kirkwood's interest after watching the film 'Deliverance'?

After watching the film 'Deliverance', the banjo caught Chris Kirkwood's interest.

How did Chris Kirkwood's early experiences with music lessons influence his approach to learning music?

Chris Kirkwood's early experiences with music lessons, including guitar and piano lessons, were not very engaging for him. However, these experiences influenced his approach to learning music by making him realize the importance of self-teaching and practice, as he eventually became interested in the banjo and taught himself to play it.

What was the significance of the moment Chris Kirkwood had while practicing the banjo?

The moment Chris Kirkwood had while practicing the banjo was significant because it was a breakthrough for him in understanding the mechanics of music and realizing his ability to teach himself. It was an eye-opening experience that made him appreciate the creation of music and the instruments used to produce it.

How did the Meat Puppets band start?

The Meat Puppets band started when Chris Kirkwood, his brother Kurt, and their friend Derek Bostrom began playing music together. They found a unique connection and intoxicating energy when they played as a trio, which marked the beginning of their band.

What was the impact of Nirvana's MTV Unplugged performance on the Meat Puppets' popularity?

Nirvana's MTV Unplugged performance had a significant impact on the Meat Puppets' popularity. Kurt Cobain invited Chris and Kurt Kirkwood to perform with Nirvana on the show, which led to increased exposure for the Meat Puppets. After Kurt Cobain's death, the Unplugged performance was released as an album, further propelling the Meat Puppets into the spotlight.

What does Chris Kirkwood enjoy most about playing music?

Chris Kirkwood enjoys the feel of playing music and the experience of letting the music play through him. He loves the sense of discovery and the joy that comes from playing and connecting with music, which has kept him passionate about his craft throughout his career.